#1 Mavericks Travel to Marshall to Take on Mustangs in Nonconference Game

Thursday Night Football Returns to Maverick Stadium

The Minnesota State University, Mankato football team will travel to Marshall, Minn. on Thursday night to take on the Southwest Minnesota State University Mustangs in a nonconference game.

The Mavericks enter the game with a 1-0 record after a dominating win over the Minot State Beavers in their home opener last Thursday. The Mustangs are also 1-0 after a thrilling come-from-behind victory over the Bemidji State Beavers on the road.

The Mavericks are led by senior running back Connor Thomas, who rushed for over 200 yards in the season opener. Quarterback JD Spielman also impressed in his first start, throwing for 200+ yards and two scores in the victory.

The Mustangs are a veteran squad, with 10 starters returning on offense. Quarterback Luke Papenfuss is one of the best in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference, having thrown for over 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns last season. Running back Darius James is the Mustangs' leading returning rusher after posting over 800 rushing yards in 2021.

The Mavericks travel to Marshall for the first time since 2018, and have won the previous two meetings between the two schools.

Game Information

Kickoff at the Schwan Regional Event Center is set for 6 p.m. Thursday night.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and children 12 and under.

Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the gate on game day.

Live Coverage

The game will be broadcast live on Fox Sports North Plus and ESPN+.

Live stats and play-by-play will be available on the SMSU Athletics website.

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